Mexican President Enrique Peña Nieto said the natural disasters that have hit the country in the last couple months have fostered a stronger sense of unity between citizens and elements of the country’s armed forces.
The remarks were made during a ceremony celebrating the 30th anniversary of Mexico’s First Army Corps. “Like few times before, a common language was shared between citizens and military personnel who worked side by side to achieve a common goal,” said Peña Nieto.
Peña Nieto highlighted the presence of soldiers, pilots, marines and other members of the Mexican army and general public during the times of need brought forth by the earthquakes that hit Mexico on Sep. 7 and Sep.19. “All of us witnessed how the arrival of the military to disaster zones produced cheers among the people,” he said.
September will be remembered by the Mexican people for three things, said Peña Nieto: “First, for our vulnerability in the face of nature’s destructive power; second, for the unity and solidarity of the Mexican people, especially of its younger members; and third, for the strength of our institutions.”
The Mexican army has a history of providing aid in the face of natural disasters, like when Hurricane Katia hit the state of Veracruz in early September.